Unfortunately, fatal car crashes are still far too common a thing in Texas. However, if we look at the most recent statistics on fatal crashes, we are able to learn a few things that can help make the roads safer for ourselves and other motorists. Learning the factors that contribute to fatal accidents can help you prepare to avoid them when on the road in Texas.
Fatal Crashes and Time of the Year
We typically expect to see increased motor vehicle crashes during the travel season. With more cars on the road, more people going to and from places, the risk for accidents increases. When we look at the statistics though, we only see a marginal increase in the number of fatal crashes for the warmer months and a decrease during the colder months.
This tells us that even though more people may be traveling during certain times of the year, this does not necessarily increase the rate of fatal crashes for folks in Texas.
The Worst Days and Times For Fatal Crashes
When we look at the numbers, it is clear that there are certain days of the week and certain times of the day when fatal crashes are more likely. The data shows that nearly 50% more crashes occur on weekend days, being Friday, Saturday, and Sunday than during the rest of the days of the week.
This may coincide with more people being out on the roads on those days, as people are more likely to go out and want to do things on those days. We also notice the highest number of crashes from the midnight to 3am time frame. This is common throughout the week, but on weekends the numbers jump to significantly higher levels. We also see the highest total number of accidents on Fridays and Saturdays between the hours of 6pm and midnight.
Throughout the week we see lower numbers early in the morning and see a gradual rise starting at noon and continuing until 3am when accidents have reached their peak. This may also be due to increased traffic volume as the day goes on.
How Weather and Visibility Impact Fatal Car Crashes
Most of us know from experience that bad weather and not being able to see makes you more likely to crash. This isn’t always the case. When we look at the number of fatal car crashes in Texas, we see that almost half of all yearly fatal crashes occur during daylight hours with normal weather conditions. The second largest portion occurs after dark under normal weather conditions.
This could be due to the fact that many people choose not to drive during bad weather or that those who are on the road in the rain, snow, or other conditions are more cautious as they drive so as to avoid getting into an accident.
Conclusions
What we can ultimately conclude when we look at the fatal crash statistics is that you are more likely to be involved in a fatal crash in the overnight hours on the weekend, or during the daylight hours when the weather is calm.
If you are involved in a car crash accident or have lost a loved one due to an accident, then now is the time to contact an injury attorney and begin the process to get the compensation you deserve.
